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How to Make a Pocket Chart for an Elementary Class

First introduced at kindergarten age as a way to engage pupils with interactive learning, pocket charts remain useful well into elementary school. Pocket charts allow a child to clearly and concisely demonstrate their level of knowledge by categorizing something they have learned. This could be a physical object -- such as a certain type of rock -- or it could be a representative card, such as a type of written sentence. This skill of cataloging and categorizing is something which will stand them in good stead as they progress with their learning, particularly in the scientific subjects, where clarity of classification is vital.

Things You'll Need

  • Poster board
  • Scissors
  • Pen
  • Measuring tape
  • Ruler
  • Hole punch
  • Fabric for pockets
  • Stapler with staples
  • Needle and thread
  • Stickers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide how big the chart needs to be. As it is aimed at elementary level classes, you need to ensure that children of that age group will be able to access it effectively. The chart should not reach beyond 5 feet above floor level while also not being so low that children cannot reach the lower pockets comfortably. Cut a strip of poster board to about 4 feet in length.

    • 2

      Divide the strip of board up into segments, one segment for each pocket you plan to add. If you feel that one pocket deserves more prestige than another pocket then make that segment larger. Once you have divided the strip up into segments, dedicate some space within each segment to label each pocket. Alternatively, if you are using opaque pockets, the label can go on the pocket itself.

    • 3

      Punch a hole into the middle of the top edge of the poster board. As the pocket chart is unlikely to be too heavy, it can be hung off one heavyweight screw in a central position, minimizing wall damage. If your pocket chart is going to hold heavier materials, it is advisable to drill a hole in each corner of the board and use four wall fixings for extra support.

    • 4

      Cut your pockets out of the fabric samples. Pockets should be as wide as the chart itself plus 2 inches. This extra fabric ensures that the pocket is baggy and is able to fit reasonably sized objects in it. Staple the fabric to the chart, keeping it within its allotted area. Staple along three of the four edges, leaving the top edge clear to put things in. If using opaque fabric pockets, sew a label onto the front of the pocket. If you are using clear plastic pockets, either stick a label above the pocket or incorporate a visible label within the pocket.

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